Chowder Day 2006 in Bodega Bay

Great Turnout Feb. 25, 2006

Hundreds of people from Sonoma County, many of whom were locals, the Bay Area, and the Sacramento area flocked to Bodega Bay last Saturday to taste the chowder despite what looked to be a gloomy rainy day. One fellow even came from Russia, looking for Beet Borsch, but was more than willing to try out the chowder. At the Visitors Center, participants picked up a map, which served as their admission ticket, an evaluation of the chowders, and comments. Six restaurants, participated in the tasting.

The Spud Point Crab Company received the highest ratings. Close behind were the newly remodeled BlueWater Bistro at the Bodega Harbour Links, Brisas del Mar, the Boathouse, the Sandpiper, and the Tides Wharf. Garlic was praised by many as an ingredient they detected and enjoyed.

The Spud Point Crab Company has been invited to Gualala on Saturday April 1 to be one of the guest judges for the 4th Annual Clam Chowder Cook off at the Redwood Coast Whale and Jazz Festival.

With sightings of the gray whales migrating North past Bodega Head, facilitated by the Whale Watch volunteers from the Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods, a number of locations selling fresh Dungeness crab, and a very low afternoon tide exposing wonderful tide pools, visitors barely had enough time to fit in all the activities offered. Many said they wanted to return and stay longer so they could further explore the area.

Word is getting out: in northern California Bodega Bay is the location for the freshest seafood not to mention a great place to stay and play!